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    211
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  • First review
    October 21, 2013
  • Last review
    June 8, 2026
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  • Answer count
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  • First answer
    March 27, 2017
  • Last answer
    March 26, 2018
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PracticalSandy's Reviews
<< 1 2 3 4 5 6 ... 22 >>
 
Do less and accomplish more. The HP Chromebook 14-inch brings a reliable Intel processor, 14-inch high definition screen, dual speakers, and dependable Wi-Fi technology, so you can easily knock out any assignment, listen to music, or stream your favorite videos and games.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Nice Simple Chromebook with Excellent Features
on March 17, 2025
Posted by: PracticalSandy
My experience with the HP Chromebook has been surprisingly positive, especially considering its budget-friendly nature. From the moment it arrived, the adequate packaging ensured it was well-protected. Inside, I found the Chromebook itself and the charging cable – everything you need to get started.
I'm typically not a fan of folded instruction manuals, but the one included was straightforward and to the point. It served its purpose perfectly for a quick overview of features, and I haven't needed to reference it since.
One of the first things that struck me was the exterior finish. It's a textured matte finish that feels great and, most importantly, doesn't show fingerprints. This is a huge plus for anyone who hates constantly wiping down their devices.
The port selection is excellent. The inclusion of an HDMI port alongside the USB ports is incredibly useful for us, as we frequently cast content to our television. This eliminates the need for adapters, which is always appreciated.
The keyboard is exceptionally comfortable to type on. It shares the same matte finish as the exterior, providing a pleasant tactile experience. It's also remarkably quiet. My only wish is that it were back-lit, which would make it perfect for low-light environments. The keyboard includes a search button, which has been very convenient and useful. I find it easier to use for finding apps and files than the Windows search function.
Setting up the Chromebook was a breeze. All my Google apps loaded quickly once I connected to my account, which speaks to the seamless integration with the Google ecosystem. I was also genuinely impressed with the browsing speed. Pages load quickly, and overall performance is smooth and responsive.
The cleanliness of Google Chrome OS is another major advantage. There's no bloatware, and everything feels streamlined and efficient. I also appreciate the lack of concern about hard drive storage, as most of my computing is done online.
Finally, the battery life is excellent. I've been able to work for extended periods without needing to recharge, which is perfect for on-the-go use.
Overall, the HP Chromebook delivers a solid user experience with its comfortable keyboard, fingerprint-resistant finish, and fast performance. While a back-lit keyboard would be a welcome addition, the device excels at its core function: providing a simple, efficient, and enjoyable browsing and online computing experience. This is a great everyday Chromebook!
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
HyperX QuadCast 2 S is a full-featured microphone designed with creators in mind. In addition to iconic features of our QuadCast line, like the tap-to-mute sensor, four selectable polar patterns, and included shock mount/stand, we~ve enhanced the QuadCast 2 S with improved functionalities to elevate our users~ experience. The 32-bit/192kHz advanced audio capability, enables the mic to deliver unmatched clarity and precision while maintaining exceptional audio fidelity. The QuadCast 2 S is the world's most customizable USB gaming microphone, with over 100 aRGB LEDs.1 The aRGB LEDs enable users to customize a stunning visual that blends sound fidelity with an energetic style. We~ve also enhanced the QuadCast 2 S to effectively address the various challenges highlighted by our community. Users are now able to quickly adjust microphone and headphone levels, like mic gain and monitor mix with a single, multifunction knob. We~ve also redesigned our shock mount with an innovative, spring-loaded pin system to easily mount onto a mic arm. HyperX listened and we~ve delivered a microphone that is truly customized for our community.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Beautiful Great Quality Microphone
on January 3, 2025
Posted by: PracticalSandy
Here are my thoughts after a few days of using the HyperX Microphone.
Packaging and Contents:
The microphone arrived in great packaging—a sturdy box that ensured the product was well-protected. Inside, you'll find the microphone, a USB-C cord, and a quick start guide. Personally, I prefer booklets over folded paper for guides, but that's just a minor nitpick. The illustrations were good, though the instructions weren't very clear at times about the controls.
Setup and Use:
The process to select between polar patterns involves pushing the control knob for 2 seconds to see its current setting. However, to choose a different pattern, you need to continue holding and turning the knob, which I found quite cumbersome. It would be more intuitive to simply cycle through modes by holding the button and pressing again to select.
Adjusting the gain and viewing the VU meter is done via the same knob. The color changes to purple for gain adjustments and to green for the voice meter. It's functional, but the dual-use of the knob could be simplified.
Performance:
For my first recording, I created a training video using the microphone on the stereo setting. I was extremely impressed by the sound quality. It was clear, with no background noise, and I didn't need to adjust the sound during video editing—a huge plus!
Design:
The microphone comes with a shockproof stand, which is a great addition, ensuring stable and vibration-free recordings.
Conclusion:
While the HyperX - QuadCast 2 S has a few minor quirks in its setup process, its impressive sound quality and sturdy design make it a fantastic choice for anyone in need of a reliable microphone. Whether you're recording videos, streaming, or podcasting, this microphone won't disappoint.
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
HMD Vibe gives you smooth performance, even while running multiple apps, for up to 2 days between charges. And it does this for less than you~d expect. It~s not lacking in the camera department, either ~ thanks to advanced AI modes, all you have to do is strike a pose, snap away and share.
 
Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
Great features except for main phone function
on December 23, 2024
Posted by: PracticalSandy
The Vibe phone came well packaged and includes a standard USB C charging cable. The illustration on the inside cover of the box showed where to insert the SIM and the memory card and was very helpful. I was surprised that the Vibe was almost identical to my name brand low-end phone (more on that later).
The phone came charged and ready to go. The set up was easy, and if you wanted to copy everything from another phone, it showed how you could tether and copy. I chose to just set up and connect with my email accounts. I found it interesting that during setup, verifying some of the accounts had to be done on my old phone (that no longer had a SIM), but my phone was viable so that wasn't an issue. That is probably a function of the software, not the phone anyway.
I liked the size of the phone, the clarity of the screen, the power and sound buttons on the side - a very functional and nice looking phone. However, it lacked in some key areas - the call quality was not good - callers stated that it was somewhat quiet (call sound was at full volume) and almost "tinny". It also went into "Emergency Calls only" mode quite a few times in just a couple of days. I am in a rural setting, but when I put the SIM back into my old phone, I had no signal issues.
I could not get the Google voice search to work, even though permissions were on in settings. I use that feature frequently so that was frustrating. It also came with bloatware that I didn't care for - but those could be easily uninstalled.
The camera and battery life were both acceptable - especially for the price of the phone.
Overall, I really liked the phone itself. If the call quality was better and had better signal strength, I would keep using it. I would probably recommend it still to someone in a good reception area that wanted an inexpensive phone, but for me it didn't work out.
I would recommend this to a friend!
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
The Blueair Humidifier rapidly provides humidification up to 500 sqft. Designed to create more comfortable sleep air through an easier, cleaner humidification experience. This humidifier uses cutting-edge InvisibleMist Technology, a technology that delivers up to 48 hours of clean moisture by first trapping water impurities within our anti-microbial coated wick, then releases pure water vapor into the air. No more stickiness, water residue or white dust - only pure water vapor released into the air without the mist. With the UV-powered water pump that recirculates water, the risk of bacteria growth in the water is heavily reduced. Easy maintenance with two ways to refill and an easy clean tank, which has a large opening for no hard-to-reach spots, or is dishwasher safe for a deeper clean of the unit. Achieve better sleep with the highly rated Blueair app, as the AutoHydrate feature uses sensors to monitor and adjust your specific environment. Want it to run through the night? Activate night mode for continuous, quiet humidification that works throughout the night for uninterrupted sleep.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Helps winter dryness - easy to maintain
on December 4, 2024
Posted by: PracticalSandy
Everything came well packaged. The user manual is easy to read and has good illustrations that show each component and the Control Panel indicators.
The app was easy to download the device was easy to connect. At first the indicator and app said low water level, even though it was filled to the max line, but I just lifted the top and put it back on, then turned on again, and it registered that there was water in it. I have not had any other issues.
Filling the unit is easy - either through the top or you can disassemble and fill the tank directly. Very convenient options.
The unit breaks down easily and can be cleaned with soap and water quickly. It also does not take up very much room - fits on a small bookcase in my bedroom.
You can set the humidity level, and the fan speed, either on the unit itself or on the app. The navigation for both is simple. The unit is very quiet unless you put the fan on max, then it has a little noise (to be expected).
The best part is that it does the job by putting moisture in the air - particularly during the winter. I've noticed my eyes are not dry and my nose does not bleed.
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
 
The BlueParrott B650-XT Bluetooth headset for cell phone provides incredibly clear calls in high-noise environments making it the perfect solution for truck drivers, delivery drivers, farmers, landscapers, and RV drivers who need reliable communication on the go. Equipped with 96% noise cancellation for the microphone and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for the earcup, our wireless headset for work effectively eliminates unwanted noise during calls. Whether you're driving long hauls, making deliveries, working the farm, or cruising in your RV, our wireless headset offers up to 36 hours of talk time on a single charge, so you can stay connected all day - from the road to the job site, to winding down with music or a movie, and still have power left for tomorrow. With an impressive 300-foot (100-meter) wireless range, you can leave your phone in the vehicle and still have full access to your calls, making it perfect for long-distance drivers and those who are always on the move. Its IP54-rated protection against dust and water ensures that the B650-XT can handle the rugged demands of trucking, deliveries, landscaping, farming, or RV living. Our noise cancelling headset for delivery drivers allows you to mute calls, speed dial a preferred contact, or Push-to-Talk with your coworkers using the customizable BlueParrott Button. Simply program it with your most-used function for instant access without taking your eyes off the road. In addition, the hear-through headphone lets you use your voice to control calls, GPS directions, music, voice assistants, and more. Our trucker Bluetooth headset pairs up to 7 devices and connects with 2 devices simultaneously, and provides 600 hours of standby time.
 
Customer Rating
3 out of 5
3
The Good and the Bad
on November 25, 2024
Posted by: PracticalSandy
The BlueParrott headset came well packaged and had good, clear instructions on the box. The phone app was easy to follow with a step by step setup and connected to Bluetooth without any issues.
The headset itself is fairly comfortable, and the part that goes around the top of the head is adjustable, but I found that it presses slightly into my head. The microphone is flexible and can be positioned easily for maximum comfort and clarity. The most frustrating part of the headset was that it would not stay on my head. If I bent over or moved my head quickly, it would slip off. I don't think I could where them for hours.
The navigation buttons on the side of the headset are easy to access. When the press voice command button is pushed, the voice is not very loud. Finding what the actual voice commands were was a little difficult - they are in the app under the "i" information icon when you turn the voice command option on.
The call quality was not what I had hoped for, whether listening to a caller or to the "voice". It was somewhat scratchy or tinny. Even the sound test on the app sounded low quality.
There we some other minor issues like when you want to check the battery level, it said the headset was "medium" at 90% charged and it also said the phone was at "medium" at 30%. It would be nice to hear the percentage rather then "medium".
Overall, I wanted to like this headset. I will still use them but they are definitely not my favorite.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
+4points
4of 4voted this as helpful.
 
Boost your productivity with the essential offline solution for all your PDF needs. With Adobe Acrobat Pro 2024, you can easily create, edit, convert, and protect your documents on Windows and Mac without connecting to the cloud. Manage your documents efficiently with new features including enhanced accessibility tools, star a document, and create a new form from scratch. The updated Acrobat interface also means that you~ll be able to easily find the tools you need to complete PDF tasks faster than ever. You can own this software for a full three years, no subscription required.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Excellent PDF Editor
on November 11, 2024
Posted by: PracticalSandy
Adobe Acrobat Classic is an excellent pdf editor, and best of all does not require a monthly or yearly subscription! This reminds me of the days before SaaS when you purchased and downloaded all your software. While there are advantages to being connected to the cloud for some applications, I find using this Adobe version fulfills 99% of my required needs for a pdf editor - with some extra features.
The software was very easy to download and activate. When you open the software, the dashboard has common tools for quick access (edit a pdf, create a pdf, combine files, etc.), and shows your recent files which is convenient.
When opening a PDF to edit, I was amazed to see all the components were easily selectable to change, move or delete. It made editing and modifications of an existing file extremely easy.
There are so many great features of this offline software. Here are the ones I like best and use the most:
- converting the pdf to other formats such as a doc or image
- adding your own signature
- ability to add, crop and resizes images quickly
- post and send comments
- star documents for easy access
- create custom stamps (this is one of my favorites)
- create fillable forms (very easy to create all form fields)
Each of these features is easy to access, and the software has a great user interface. Plus, if you can't find a tool for some reason - you can type it into the search bar and it will bring you to it.
The only real issue I have is sending a pdf by email via my default application. The webmail option works, but puts a copy of the pdf in the draft folder of the actual email. I had to revert back to the classic version of my email application for it to work properly.
Overall, this Adobe Acrobat Classic software is an excellent everyday tool!
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Amazing taste, crispy texture, and 75% less fat than traditional fried foods, the bella PRO 8-qt. Touchscreen Air Fryer with Divided Basket is the perfect addition to your kitchen. Featuring an extra-large capacity to feed up to 8 people and a divided basket that cooks two foods at once, you (and your family~and your friends~) will love it. Beautiful design with a professional stainless steel handle takes it to the next level. Made without PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, Lead, and Cadmium, the EverGood Ceramic Nonstick Coating gives you confidence & peace of mind when using this air fryer, while dishwasher-safe parts simplify the cleanup process and save you valuable time.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Great Time Saver in the Kitchen
on October 31, 2024
Posted by: PracticalSandy
This Bella Pro 8 qt air fryer is the perfect companion in the kitchen, saving time by not only cooking things quickly and evenly, but the cleanup is so quick and easy.
The Bella comes well packaged and is a solid, well-built device. The instruction manual is concise and easy to follow. It has a convenient food chart and some recipes too. It's the perfect size for cooking for 2-4 people and doesn't take up much space on the countertop.
The first meal I made was frozen french fries, and fresh (raw) shrimp. The touchscreen has eight menu items that each have a preset time and temperature - but both time and temp can be easily adjusted to a desired setting. For my meal I selected air fry and kept the temp at 400 and adjusted the time to 20 minutes. I used 1 tbsp of oil and seasonings for the shrimp and nothing on the french fries. I used the divider that came with it to separate the food. I tossed both the fries and the shrimp about 3 times during cooking.
They both came out beautifully cooked and neither one stuck to the cooking tray at all. The tray is a ceramic coated tray and helps food brown as well as not stick.
The best part of the Bella was how easy it was to clean up. I used hot soapy water to quickly wash the basket, tray and divider. This is a great time saver and convenient addition to the kitchen!
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
 
JVC Nearphones open ear cuff style true wireless headphones that won~t block your ears, with featherlight comfort, secure fit, and rich sound. Up to 20 hours of total use with built-in battery and charging case.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Extremely Comfortable
on October 31, 2024
Posted by: PracticalSandy
These JVC Nearphones came very well packaged in a nice box, with a case and a USB C charging cord. The instructions were on a folded thin paper with lots of other languages and small print, making it not easy or convenient for going through... but at least the illustrations were clear and concise.
The earbuds paired easily with both my phone and laptop and tells you when one or both are connected.
Navigation using the buttons could be easier - I haven't got the taps down yet, but I usually navigate on my device (volume, forward, etc.) The sound quality is very good - clear and with no background noise.
The best feature of these Nearphones is how extremely comfortable they are. I put them in to watch a movie on my laptop, and when the movie was over, I literally forgot that they were in my ears. They are so easy to pop into (or hang into) my ear - much easier than standard earbuds which I tend to have to fiddle with. I have sensitive skin and these do not irritate them at all even after a couple of hours.
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
Designed for a seamless experience, the fully automatic Magnifica Plus guides you through the brewing process. Easily craft drinks with the touch of a button with 18 recipes to choose from, including Latte Macchiatos, Cappuccinos, Americanos & Iced Coffee. The built-in conical burr grinder and brewing unit deliver espresso with the perfect grind, dose, and brew every time, saving you time and effort. De~Longhi~s proprietary LatteCrema technology automatically froths milk and milk alternatives, allowing you to personalize your drink with 3 different frothing settings - light, creamy, or dense. The full touch screen display and soft touch buttons make navigation intuitive and guide you to craft and customize your beverage quickly. With up to 4 unique user profiles, adjust size and intensity to fit your preferences. Find your favorite drinks faster with Smart One-Touch intelligence, programmed to remember your most popular choices. Clean-up is simple with our auto-clean function and detachable, dishwasher-safe parts. With the Magnifica Plus, enjoy your caf~ favorites at home, at the touch of a button.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
The absolute easiest way to make coffee drinks!
on October 29, 2024
Posted by: PracticalSandy
This De'Longhi Magnifica Plus espresso machine is amazing! It comes well packaged and you can tell when taking it out of the box that it is well made and high quality.
The instruction manual is very well written and detailed, but not really needed since this machine tells you exactly what to do every step of the way on the touchscreen display, which is incredibly clear and has high resolution pictures as well as instructions. When first setting up, it has you test your water for hardness (a test strip is included) and tells you whether or not you need the filter.
The selection of coffee types is awesome - and easy to scroll through on the touchscreen. Besides every coffee drink from espresso to cappuccino (and everything in-between), you can also select hot water or hot milk. For each type, it shows a picture (of how much milk, espresso and froth is in each) and you can quickly adjust both the size and the intensity. Plus, you can save that selection for each person you set up a profile for! It is absolutely a blast to use!
When using the milk frother, there are three different density settings - but the machine even tells you which one to use for which drink.
This is definitely the easiest machine I've used for making latte's (my favorite) and other specialty drinks. It is also the easiest to clean with many of the parts dishwasher safe.
The only downside of owning this machine, is that I'm drinking way too many espressos each day!
I would recommend this to a friend!
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
User submitted photo
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
 
We understand that dealing with hearing loss and wearing traditional hearing aids can be challenging. That's why we're excited to introduce the Hear OTC Hearing Aid & Earbuds~a stylish 2-in-1 device that combines advanced hearing aid technology with Bluetooth connectivity for music and calls. Effortlessly switch between hearing aid mode to boost your hearing and earbud mode to enjoy your favorite music. Whether you're relaxing at home, chatting with friends, dining out, or navigating busy streets, JLab~s four preset hearing modes ensure you hear the sounds around you clearly.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Outstanding hearing aids and earbuds
on October 15, 2024
Posted by: PracticalSandy
The JLab Hearing Aids came very well packaged with plenty of extra rubber ear tips as replacements. The Quick Start guide is extremely well written, with both great illustrations and simple to understand words. The phone app is also extremely easy and well done - with videos tutorials and easy pairing.
At first I could not get them to pair with my phone, but quickly learned it was because they were in "hearing aid only" mode. Even this was easy to find and remedy in the Quick Start guide.
The case they come in has lights that are easy to understand for charging and pairing. The case also has a built in USB-C charging cord that is awesome - you don't have to keep track of yet another charging cord. This just plugs in quickly to an electrical plug that has a USB-C port.
The earbuds themselves are extremely comfortable and fit well. Even when using for a long period (like a movie). The sound quality as an earbud is good - no background noise at all and clear.
As hearing aids - they are impressive. You can select the various modes by double tapping the controls. Each mode; restaurant, loud, conversation, and quiet environment is different and you can choose which one works best very quickly.
The volume has four levels and when you press the controls, it tells you the number you are at.
These hearings aids enhance whatever you are listening to without any screeching or background noise. Plus they can be used to listen to movies and music as earbuds - what a perfect combination.
These earbuds are a complete package - easy to use, well written instructions, and excellent sound control and quality. My husband and I both suffer from some hearing loss and these are game changers without the hassle of expensive, fitted hearing aids.
I would recommend this to a friend!
0points
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PracticalSandy's Answers
 
With up to 40 hours of battery life, Beats Solo3 Wireless is your perfect everyday headphone. With Fast Fuel, a 5-minute charge gives you 3 hours of playback. Enjoy award-winning Beats sound with Class 1 Bluetooth~ wireless listening freedom. The on-ear, cushioned ear cups are adjustable so you can customize your fit for all-day comfort.
 

Are you able to wirelessly talk on your cell phone with these or you need a cord?

You can talk wirelessly.
8 years, 2 months ago
by
PracticalSandy
 
Only at Best BuyInsignia~ Portable Bluetooth Stereo Speaker: Take the music with you with this speaker, which features Bluetooth connectivity for easy music streaming from your compatible device. The built-in power bank charges compatible devices.
 

What color light is on when the brick is charging and should it be on or off when charging?

The light is flashing white when charging. It can be either on or off for charging. When it's unplugged, it is a solid white light.
9 years, 1 month ago
by
PracticalSandy
 
Bring bold color to your gaming hobby with this Razer Kraken analog headset. Thick padding and a lightweight construction make it ideal for extended wear, and the fully retractable microphone lets you adjust the device to meet your needs. This Razer Kraken analog headset has a long cable that provides flexibility of movement as you play.
 

Does your voice playback through the headset? I always have one earphone off so I can hear myself so I'm not too loud and that's how my last headset broke

That would be a setting on you computer - under the Sound setting. When you plug in the the earphone jack, it should play back in your headset. If you want to hear it through your speakers, unplug the earphone jack (leave the microphone jack plugged in to record).
9 years, 2 months ago
by
PracticalSandy